In the fast-paced world of cricket, every moment counts, and every player’s health is of paramount importance. Shubman Gill, the young and immensely talented opener for Team India, has found himself in the midst of a health crisis that has left fans and selectors worried.
The unfolding drama began when Shubman Gill was admitted to a hospital in Chennai after contracting dengue fever. This sudden and serious illness sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity and raised concerns about his participation in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Before the onset of this health setback, Shubman Gill had emerged as one of the most promising young talents in the cricketing world. His remarkable form in the lead-up to the World Cup had set high expectations. Gill had amassed an impressive 1230 runs, making him the highest run-scorer in the format in the current year. With an average of 72.35, five centuries, and as many fifties, Gill was the shining star of the Indian cricketing horizon.
However, as fate would have it, just as Gill was gearing up to make his World Cup debut, he was struck down by a high fever upon his arrival in Chennai. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of dengue fever, forcing him to miss India’s opening game against Australia. The fever not only disrupted his campaign but also raised concerns about his recovery timeline.
While Team India remains hopeful that Gill will make a swift recovery, dengue is notorious for leaving the body weakened, even after the fever subsides. This lingering weakness casts a shadow of doubt over his availability for the blockbuster World Cup match against Pakistan, scheduled at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gill might also be at risk of missing the clash against Bangladesh on October 19.
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In light of this uncertainty, reports suggest that the selectors are contemplating the need for a replacement player to be kept on standby. Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has previously opened for India and showcased his skills with a half-century in Mohali, emerges as the first-choice backup opener. Following closely is the left-handed sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal, who impressed with his performances in the Asian Games tournament, where India clinched gold.
In Gill’s absence, Ishan Kishan was entrusted with the role of opening the innings in the game against Afghanistan. While he faced a challenging start, the Afghanistan tie presented another opportunity for him to prove his mettle before the crucial clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023.